Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park – in the heart of Europe between the Moselle and the Rhine

From the heights of the Rhenish-Westphalian Slate Mountains in Hunsrück up to 816 metres above sea-level, to the sun-kissed vineyards of the Moselle, Saar, Ruwer and Nahe valleys, nature has thrown up bizarre rock formations, deep gorges and some beautiful landscapes as it has evolved over the millennia. Particularly impressive are the Hangbrücher moors in the Hunsrück region. Then there are the imposing cliff and rock formations made of fossil-flecked limestone, Bunter sandstone, slate and Taunus quartz, as well as those created by volcanic activity.

A diverse range of flora includes narcissi, arnica, orchids and orchards, while extensive woodland and a network of hedgerows and borders provides a habitat for kingfishers, dragonflies, wildcats, beavers and deer.

The area is never short of things to do – from trying out the local food and drink, to day trips, walking, or cycling along the river, to hiking on the best long-distance route in Germany, the Saar-Hunsrück Trail, or on other quality-certified trails. From the area around Perl on the Upper Moselle, via the Saar Bow geotope and Idar-Oberstein (Germany's gemstone capital), to the dramatic Hunsrück region or the Roman city of Trier, walkers on the Saar-Hunsrück Trail and the Saar-Hunsrück 'dream loops' can expect ever-changing landscapes, stunning views, natural beauty, cultural treasures and a sense of peace and tranquillity.

And the culinary landscape is equally diverse, with a variety of food festivals devoted to local specialities such as dandelion, mushrooms and bear's garlic, apples, wine and cider, potatoes and game …

Using our interactive travel planner you can put together your own personalised route through Destination Germany, incorporating all the important information you'll need along the way. It couldn't be easier:

Browse our website for places that you would like to visit.

To add the destination to your travel planner simply click on the icon . You'll find the icon at the end of each article.